Best Wood Carving Tools In 2019 [Buying Guide]

Well,
you need a wood carving tool for the purpose. You will find so many impressive
products on the market. And many of them have a lot to offer. You will find
them useful for various types of jobs.

Now,
you will have to set the goals you want to achieve through the carver. Then you
should look for the one that will provide you with maximum benefit.

Since
the search for the best wood carving tool isn’t that simple of a task,
we are presenting you with our reviews of the top products in the market along
with a buying guide.

Let’s
see what we have for you.

What Is Wood Carving Tool?

This
is a type of tool that woodworkers use for carving or incising wood to give the
wood the desired looks. It shapes the wood into something nice and more usable.
And this lets you use the wood for various purposes.

The
tool consists of a wooden handle and a metallic blade along with a tip. With
the blade, you carve the woods while holding the tool by the handle.

Our Recommended Best Wood Carving Tool

Check out these wood carving tool reviews we have come up with. Once you are done with this section, you will have a clear concept about the best products out there.

1. Xacto X5179 Carving Tool Set

This particular product comes with a carving set that has 6 tools. Xacto has introduced forged steelhead in these tools to make them deal with numerous types of woods. And when it comes to handling, the brand has come with an impressive one. You will find it very comfortable. And it’s durable too.

These
tools are used for shaping wood as well as groove cutting. And if you are
looking to do some deep relief cutting, you will find these to be very useful.
The blades of these tools are designed, sized, and shaped in a way so that they
can provide detailed and accurate cuts with consistency.

Moreover,
they have made sure that the blades stay sharp for a long period providing you
with extra comfort. For, no one likes to sharpen the blades frequently.

What’s
interesting about this set is that it’s incredibly lightweight. When you look
at its construction along with the blade materials it provides, you will be in
for a surprise regarding the weight.

What’s
more, you will be able to handle them for a long period without much of hand
fatigue.For providing all these benefits, this has to be the best
wood carving toolset you will find out there.

2. Stanley 16-793 Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel 8 Piece Set

The
first thing that should be mentioned about this remarkable wood carving tool
kit is its blades with steel construction that makes it one of the
sturdiest units out there. Also, they have made the beveling sides of these
blades tapered so that you have a better working experience with wood.

Another
spectacular thing about it is its thin blade. You won’t see such perfectly thin
blade out there much. They have done this to add extra cutting capacity. For,
the thinner these blades are, the better cuts they produce. Besides, they won’t
bend for getting high pressure, thanks to the materials used in making them.

Another
worth mentioning feature is the bag that comes with the tools. You can store
them whenever you are off work, to ensure their safety. You will find it useful
when you have a project away from home. And the quality it offers is quite
satisfactory. However, some might find it to be prone to damage.

Nevertheless,
the unique style the brand introduces in its products seems to be spot on every
time. And this product is no different providing you with the smoothest of work
experience.

Pros

It
has a strong wood handle and thin blades for doing detail woodworks. This one
also comes with a durable carbon construction.

Cons

The
storage case should have been damage-proof.

3. Gimars 12 Set SK5 Carbon Steel Wax & Wood Carving Tools Knife Kit

This
one makes a good option for the beginners to try. What’s amazing about this kit
is that its tools provide all sorts of tips you are going to need in
woodworking. The 12 knives it comes with are so versatile, thanks to these
tips. Moreover, they have provided different types of essential tools in the
package.

These
tools will serve various purposes, such as crafts, home repair, DIY and art
projects, etc. You will find them to get along best with softwood, especially
hickory, pine, and poplar wood. But, when it comes to hardwood, they might not
be the perfect option.

They
have used high-quality steel in making these tools and added to them
electrolyte coating. Thus, you get one of the most durable units out there.
What’s also impressive is the sharpness of the blades. You will be able to get
to work immediately once you have laid your hands on them.

What’s
more, the handles of these tools come with comfortable grips offering you with
pleasant working experience and less hand fatigue. Looking at all these
conveniences, we found this model to be the best wood carving tool for
beginners.

Pros

Carbon
steel construction along with electrolyte coating makes it durable and the
strong handle provides a comfy grip. It has very sharp blades to start the work
right away.

This
model introduces an impressively long knife. You won’t find too many 7.5 inches
long whittling knives out there. They have made the blade to account for
3.2″ of the total. What’s impressive is its ultra-thinness that makes it
suitable for carving fine details without any hassle.

They
have given it a small width so that it can get into tight spaces easily. The
laminated steel construction makes the blades durable. And in terms of
sharpness, this tool is quite impressive. I liked the design the handle comes
with. It makes it comfortable to work with the carver.

But,
there’s an issue with the handle’s shape. Since it is cylindrical, you can’t
determine the direction of the blade. And during long hours of work, the
mirror-like shininess of the steel can mislead you. However, these are very
insignificant flaws for these types of tools to have.

We
would highly recommend this tool for we haven’t seen many of its likes. For
doing fine details, it will be a valuable possession. Moreover, the quality and
sharpness the blade comes with are unbelievable.

Pros

It
has a quality construction, and performance is top-notch. The blades are
outstandingly sharp and the tapered shape makes it ideal for fine jobs.

Cons

The
handle might confuse you in determining the direction of the blade.

This
is an impressively designed little carving tool. You will be astonished at its
sharpness. Thanks to this, you can get to work the moment the delivery arrives.
And the built of this knife should be appreciated too. What’s also cool is the
oak handle. It will provide high comfort and save your hands from getting
fatigued.

They
have introduced flats on the handle’s side so that you get proper tactile
feedback. Not to mention, the added ease in controlling the knife. Another
outstanding little feature is the copper ferrule. And what’s the best part
about this carving tool is that you get all these features at a rather low
price.

There’s
a drawback for this unit though. You won’t get any storage case with it, which
is a shame. But, considering the price, it can be understood. Also, the blade
might strop at times, which is not much of a big deal either.

We
would recommend this tool for its sharpness as well as all the remarkable
features it offers. You will find it consistent during wood cutting and very
smooth as well.

Pros

The
sharpened blade makes it ready to be used on arrival and flats on the sides
provide tactile feedback. Its oak handle is comfortable to grip.

Cons

Occasional
stropping of the blade is a bit frustrating.

6. BeaverCraft Cutting Knife C2 6.5″ Whittling Knife

We
are reviewing an affordable unit now, which will give you the best of
performances. In the price range it comes within, you won’t get such a quality
tool out there. They have given it an impressive design for basic carving jobs
that offers you with versatility in works.

Be
it a right-handed person or left, everyone will be able to use this outstanding
tool. It allows you to cut both inward and outward. Thus, you will find it
useful irrespective to your particular style of working. But, for getting the
best result out of the work, you will find it more suitable for fine and detail
jobs.

They
have done a fabulous job with the handle. This hardwood oak handle will be as
durable as it gets. You can drop it a few times to be assured of its build. It
won’t even displace the tan from the grip. Speaking of which, the grip comes
with high durability too.

Moreover,
its ergonomic design will allow you to work with the tool for hours without
getting much of hand fatigue. What’s more, the tool is lightweight just as it
is compact.

Pros

It
has pointed tip for detail work and the carbon steel construction ensures
durability. Also, the sharp blade is ready to use right away.

Cons

It
doesn’t include any accessories.

7. Mikisyo Power Grip Carving Tools, Five Piece Set (Basic)

When
we talk about this kit, the first thing that should be mentioned is its
extraordinary dimensions. With a relatively short blade, the tools feature a
marvelous handle shape that makes it extremely easy to use. They have made it
very simple allowing you to start using it right away.

You
won’t have any issues with blisters and such things. And its nicely measuring
handle will provide you with utmost comfort. Thus, you will be able to better
control the tool, make precise cuts, and get the best results. And in the
process, you won’t have to go through any hassle.

They
have introduced a very impressive package that contains storage box, straight
chisel, and V-parting tool. These tools will make your work easy and fun by
consuming less time cutting the woods. Thus, you have the convenience that many
tools won’t be able to offer.

In
generating good carving power, the tool is spectacular. But, it is flawed with
some drawbacks. The fact that it gives rise to high bills isn’t cool. Also, it
demands some expertise. And, when it breaks down, it will be quite a task to
fix it up.

Pros

The
blade comes powered and it requires little effort from you. Also, the use is
very simple.

Cons

Gives
rise to high bills.

8. SE 7712WC Professional 12-Piece Wood Carving Chisel Set

This
kit comes with 12 pieces of differently designed wood carving tools. They have
different types of tips for offering you versatility in work. As for their
construction, manufacturers have used carbon steel in making their blades. You
will be able to work with them for a long time since these blades are quite
durable.

Apart
from being long-lasting, the blades come with the sharpest of edges that will
remain such for long. Be it detail jobs or carving, these little beauties will
do it all for you. This is because of the various shapes and sizes of the tips.

And
when it comes to handling, they have introduced one of the most comfortable
ones for these tools. It’s remarkably soft.

A
special feature this unit comes with is the tip protectors. With these in
place, you won’t have to worry about the consistency of sharpness of the
blades. What’s more, they are nicely organized when you open the package.

What
I liked most about this product is that it’s remarkably cheap. For newbies to
start with, this is a great option.

Pros

The
carbon steel blade is highly durable. It does both detail work and carving. And
the tip protectors included keep the tips sharp for a long time.

Cons

There
are grinding errors at times

Best Wood Carving Tool Buying Guide

Whether
you are a beginner or professional in woodworking, you need a classy tool to
help you with the jobs. And to make a product good in quality, certain aspects
play a crucial role.

No
matter how ordinary skilled you are in your field, a top-class product will
boost your confidence up by providing convenience.

Therefore,
we have come with this buying guide to help you make a great purchase so you
get the best of outcomes from woodworking every time. Let’s check out the
things to keep in mind before buying the carver.

A Set with Multiple Tools

These
sorts of kits are extremely useful when it comes to dealing with different
kinds of woodworking jobs. Both professionals and beginners will benefit from
such products.

What’s more, going for such options will save a whole lot of bucks and create so many opportunities. These tools come with different chisel heads. Thus, you will be able to do a bunch of works that require different tips.

Construction

The
best material to be used in constructing these tools would be carbon steel.
Thus, the users get a sturdy carver to deal with the toughest of wood pieces.
The best quality products in the market usually come with such a build.

And
if you want to go for other strong metals, it would be cool also. Just make
sure that it will get the job done both with hardwoods and softwoods.

The Sharpness of the Heads

It’s
best to have the chisel heads sharpened beforehand. This way, you will be able
to get to work right away once you get your hands on the tool. Some products
provide sharpeners. With one of these, you can sharpen the head as you like
making it suitable for your particular project on hand.

Price

This
is one of the most crucial factors that determine the choice of product for a
buyer. When it comes to carvers, they might not be the priciest of tools.
Nevertheless, to make the best purchase, it’s important to make every penny
worthily spent.

Keep
in mind that some brands might compromise on quality to offer a great price.
So, watch out for that, since the quality comes first in making a buying
decision.

How to Use Wood Carving Tools

You
can use a wood carving tool both hand-held and by using a mallet. Let’s learn
how to use it step by step;

Step 1: Hold the Tool Properly

Hold
it using both your hands, if you want to use it by hands. And if you are using
a mallet, then use the non-dominant hand. You have to make the hold correct
according to your working needs.

Step 2: Make the Cutting Edges Smooth and Straight

Place
the blade at the particular spot where the curve is going to start. Depending
on the length of the cuts, you will have to raise and lower the tool.

Step 3: Put in Some Pressure

Once
you apply some force on the workpiece, you will have your desired carving. Then
you will adjust the force according to the requirement of your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of wood are more suitable to be carved?

Ans: The woods that are more suitable for carving are white pine, European lime, European oak, basswood, sugar maple, butternut, and mahogany.

Q: Is it okay to carve oak?

Ans: Yeah, it’s okay. Oak makes some of the best furniture. For, it doubles up perfectly and is well-defined. You will need to apply a bit of force though since it’s one of the toughest kinds of wood.

Q: What is the tool used to carve wood?

Ans: You will need straight gouge as well as a chisel for carving wood.

Q: Is wood carving a good way to earn money?

Ans: Of course, it is. If you have the proper tool and know how to do it right, you will make a healthy amount of money.

Q: What does a chisel look like?

Ans: It looks like a wooden handle bearing a metal blade. The design, material, and size will vary for both the blade and handle.

Final Words

Hope
the article was beneficial finding the best wood carving tool. If you
are still confused, why not go through the reviews once again?

Once
you correspond between your need and budget and look at the benefits these
units have to offer, you will know what you want.

Let
us know your thoughts on our recommendations in the comments section below.